One of Oxford’s adopted sons is leaving the nest next week. Local bartender Ian Burnett is spreading his take on the Mississippi Blues to Germany…and beyond!
Ian, who grew up in Southaven, has been a bartender on the Square for several years now. You may have seen him holding court at the Burgundy Room Bar and before that at Two Stick, (R.I.P.) when they were located in the current Tre Amici location. Well, what you might not have seen is his passion for music, playing guitar and singing the blues. His plan is to land in Germany with his guitar and gear to busk on street corners and attend open mics. In the true nature of adventure, he left his plan open to go wherever the music takes him while he is across the pond.
He’ll be heading out after the North Mississippi Hill Country Picnic this weekend, of course. If you see him there, wish him safe travels. We’ll miss you, Ian!
– Photos and story by Sarah Beth Wiley-Smith, creative director, HottyToddy.com, sb.wiley@hottytoddy.com